Designer Note: The original yarn used here (Nashua Handknits Wooly Stripes) has unfortunately been discontinued. I’m often asked for suggested substitutes which then can be discontinued as well. Currently, March 2013, many knitters tell me Taiyo Aran has been successfully substituted. Oct 2013 a reader tells me Mochi Plus from Crystal Palace Yarns is also an excellent substitute. Creative Poems Aran, Kaleidoscope, Odin and Filzwolle Fine Color appear to be an almost identical match to the original yarn. For current substitutes if you have access to Ravelry, do a search on 100% wool yarns Aran weight that are not discontinued. Put the word single in the search box at the top of the screen and you will get the current available yarn matches.

This vest is worked in two pieces. The back is knit from the bottom edge up. The front is knit in one long section like a sideways scarf with increases at each end. The edges of the vest back are self finishing and include instructions to smooth the normally used uneven stair step bind off methods. This project is a wonderful introduction to garments for the beginner, as there are no buttonholes and minimal sewing. The fit is very forgiving and will flatter many body shapes. The classic vest back gives the garment structure while the front looks like a large scarf is hanging around your neck. This creates a strong slimming vertical line on the front of the body. The front edges can be folded back into a shawl collar shape or left to stand high on your neck. The simple textured stitch pattern shows off the long run of the colourway to its best advantage, subtly blending the colour transitions.